Dieting seems to many people to be an easy way to lose weight. For many people, dieting is the first thing they think about when struggling with extra pounds, ahead of exercise or other methods of body shaping. However, not everyone can safely adhere to strict food restrictions, and it is important to understand to whom such approaches are contraindicated.
One of the main problems with dieting is the lack of energy, because most restrictive programs assume a daily caloric intake of about 800-1000 kcal. This is critically low for the normal functioning of the body, which leads to poor health, fatigue and even insomnia. For those with chronic diseases or a weak immune system, such changes can be dangerous.
Many diets are based on drastically restricting one of the macronutrients - proteins, fats or carbohydrates. This creates an imbalance that can lead to deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals. The body needs a variety of nutrient sources, and switching to a homogeneous diet can cause a weakened immune system as well as exacerbate disease.
People with gastrointestinal diseases should be especially cautious about dietary restrictions. Diets high in protein or carbohydrates can provoke inflammation, pain and other unpleasant symptoms in those who already suffer from gastritis, ulcers or other chronic diseases of the digestive system.
Equally important to consider is the emotional and psychological state. People prone to depression or anxiety disorders may experience an increase in symptoms amidst strict dietary restrictions. Lack of calories and important nutrients affects not only physical health but also mood, making diets undesirable for those already struggling with psycho-emotional issues.
Finally, food restrictions are categorically not suitable for pregnant women and nursing mothers. During this period, the body needs more nutrients to ensure the health of both mother and child. Lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet can negatively affect the development of the baby and lead to complications during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
To summarize, it is important to remember that any dietary restrictions should be carefully considered and adapted to the state of health. Before starting a diet, it is worth consulting a doctor or nutritionist to avoid harming the body and achieve the desired result in a safe way.